At the moment, homes in that price range are few and snatched up quickly. What about your wife? Does she need to work in a hospital? That would certainly narrow your search. Brattleboro has a "tiny city" environment, but my sister lived in the Dover/Wilmington area nearby for years and loved it. I wish you luck in your search. Moving to VT was the best decision I ever made in my life and I hope your family find what you're looking for.